We are getting so close to Christmas! You know the advertising will only get more intense this week. Of course, the kids are hoping this might generate more last-minute shopping trips. Well, take heart, parents. Remember, “There are only two things that a parent needs to give their children: one is roots—the other is wings.” No mention of extra Christmas gifts!
 
Roots not only anchor a tree to the earth but nourish the whole tree by drawing up water and food from the soil. Baby birds need strong wings, because the parents’ job is to push the little ones out. Their wings will carry them far above earth, toward new horizons.
 
Pope Benedict XVI said Christians experience a similar “dual impulse of the spirit” during Advent. On one hand, we’re on our knees, anchored at the crib with the baby Jesus in Bethlehem. But at the same time, we’re lifting our eyes above the manger, toward the long-awaited fulfillment of our faith. As the Lord Jesus is born, we are already longing for his future return in glory. Those are our wings!
 
This final week of Advent let us focus on God’s love for us. Let us remember to live our lives for what we are created: eternal life.
 
CONFESSIONS
The last opportunity for confessions before Christmas at Resurrection Parish will be Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, December 20, 21 & 22 following the 11:30 Mass at St. Thomas More church.